(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – In a highly dangerous incident, Ohio law enforcement has ended a wanted fugitive’s flight from justice by gunning him down, though not without peril, as a police officer was wounded in the process.
See a TV news report about the incident in the YouTube post below!
With this escalating disregard for law and order, officials are urging communities to rally behind law enforcement efforts to hold criminals accountable while safeguarding America’s conservative values.
James J. Vanest, a fugitive wanted on federal weapons charges in West Virginia, met his end in Jackson Township, Ohio.
Tracked by the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force, Vanest was located at a motel, concluding a nationwide manhunt.
Vanest, who has a history of violent crime dating back to the 1970s, had previously served 15 years in prison for armed bank robbery and related charges.
At the scene, Vanest pointed a weapon at officers, barricading himself inside a motel room.
The Canton Regional SWAT Team responded due to the heightened threat.
Officers attempted multiple times to have Vanest surrender peacefully, but Vanest responded with gunfire instead, injuring a North Canton SWAT officer, Lewis, in the arm.
The injured officer was given emergency trauma care and underwent surgery, with expectations of full recovery.
“Officer Lewis was struck in the right arm and was provided emergency trauma care at the scene before being transported to a local hospital where he is expected to make a full recovery,” said Police Chief Frank Kemp Jr., cited by Canton Rep.
Law enforcement returned fire, resulting in Vanest’s death.
After the confrontation, investigators discovered two firearms and several spent bullet casings in the motel room, an indication of Vanest’s violent resistance.
Despite the dangerous circumstances, no other injuries were reported.
US Marshal Pete Elliott underscored the dangerous nature of the suspect: “Today, this fugitive with an extensive violent criminal history dating back to the 1970s attempted to kill officers on scene during the arrest. Unfortunately, one officer was shot but all officers on scene responded with professionalism, commitment and dedication to safely resolve the situation.”
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has been called to further investigate the incident.
Vanest’s next-of-kin has yet to be located by the Stark County Coroner’s Office, a sobering reminder of the loneliness that can accompany a life of crime.
Road closures affected Interstate 77 and Sunset Strip NW during the incident, but have since reopened, allowing the community to resume normal activities.
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